Test all of your technology (including camera/video, wi-fi, screen sharing, any features
you want to use during the meeting).
Practice Speaking to the Camera and Not the Screen
Our tendency is to look at the person on the screen, but you should look at the camera
when you speak so the audience feels like you’re talking directly to them.
Prepare Windows and Materials
Open any windows or documents you wish to share ahead of time.
Check Documents for Accessibility
Use high contrast font, make sure color designations are backed up with text, use
document text headers to support the use of screen readers.
Dress Appropriately
Take a few minutes to throw on professional attire as if you were attending a meeting
in person.
When you enter a small meeting (around 2 to 5 people) announce yourself when you join.
For larger groups, wait until introductions to speak. Try not to interrupt someone
mid-sentence.
Be Attentive
Don’t stare at your phone while other people are presenting, be attentive and present.
Silence Your Phone
Make sure your cell phone is set on silent.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It would be preferrable to find a location where there are limited distractions, and
you can be clearly visible if you are on camera.
Don’t Type in the Background
Leave your keyboard alone unless you want to use the chat to ask questions or share
comments.
Be Respectful-Raise Your Hand
To prevent interrupting others when they’re speaking use the raise-hand feature under
“reactions” in the participant panel. Don’t forget to remove the raised hand when
you are done.
Commenting
Identify yourself before commenting, try to use the chat to share any relevant information.
Mute Yourself
Mute your microphone (click on the microphone icon on the participant panel) when
you’re not talking. This helps eliminate feedback and background noise.
Don’t Multitask
Try not to work on other tasks during the meeting. It is tempting to check email or
have a side conversation, but you might miss out on key information or an opportunity
to give input if you are distracted.
Stay Seated and Stay Present
If you are on camera, use attentive body language: sit up straight, don’t make big
movements, and don’t let your eyes wander.
Accessibility
Use video as much as possible, make sure facial expressions and lip reading are accessible
(you are close enough that this can be seen)
Use the Chat to ask questions and provide links for conversation clarity
Use a headset when background noise is present
Add contact information for a help desk should issues arise
Classoom Specific
Instructor
Contact DSPS using dsps@mccd.edu for information on disability-specific accommodations. Inform your students of your
preference for participants being on camera. Students cannot be mandated to be on
camera (hyperlink to CCCCO memo).
Student
If you need course-specific accommodation, make sure to share your accommodation letter
with the instructor.
